Laser Retro-Reflection Target Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection systems fail to efficiently and effectively detect hazardous objects, such as explosive devices, in certain situations, particularly when they are accompanied by optical or electro-optical devices used by personnel.

Innovation Solution

The system employs a laser beam that is directed towards a target area and detects the retro-reflected laser beam to identify optically augmented reflections, which can indicate the presence of an explosive device or associated optical/electro-optical devices like binoculars, using a combination of a laser source, beam spoiler, detectors, and a control system to analyze the reflected beam and generate a histogram for target identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional detection systems are used to detect hazardous objects, then the detection process becomes complex and less effective, but using retro-reflection analysis with laser beams simplifies the system and improves detection efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and isolates the retro-reflection characteristic as the key detection feature, separating it from complex multi-parameter analysis. By focusing solely on detecting the retro-reflected laser beam pattern, the system achieves high detection efficiency with minimal complexity, as the retro-reflection signature is unique and easily distinguishable from other reflections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary tool to enable detection. Rather than using complex active sensors to probe targets directly, the system uses a passive laser beam that interacts with the target's optical properties, allowing detection of retro-reflection characteristics without requiring complex detection hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If conventional detection methods are used, then direct detection of explosive devices is attempted, but detecting associated optical devices provides more reliable threat identification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget identification reliabilityVSAvoiddetection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the presence of optical devices (which may be incidental rather than directly harmful) into a beneficial detection opportunity. By detecting the retro-reflection from binoculars, cameras, or other optical equipment, the system identifies threats indirectly through associated devices, making detection more reliable since these optical devices have distinctive retro-reflection signatures that are easier to detect than explosive devices themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for effective and efficient detection of targets, including explosive devices and associated optical/electro-optical devices, by utilizing retro-reflection analysis, enhancing the ability to identify potential threats without directly detecting the explosive device itself.

Implementation Method 1

detecting the laser beam reflected from the area. Whether the received laser beam comprises an optically augmented reflection indicating retro-reflection from a target is determined

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRetro-reflection: Retroreflector

Implementation Method 2

detecting the laser beam reflected from the area. Whether the received laser beam comprises an optically augmented reflection indicating retro-reflection from a target is determined

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical augmentation: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP2269090B1Detecting a target using an optical augmentation sensor
Publication Date: 2015.08.05 RAYTHEON CO
  • EP2269090B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2269090B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP2269090B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

In one embodiment, detecting a target includes directing a laser beam towards an area and detecting the laser beam reflected from the area. Whether the received laser beam comprises an optically augmented reflection indicating retro-reflection from a target is determined. The target indicates presence of an explosive device. The target is detected if the received laser beam comprises the optically augmented reflection.